In brief
Alex Manninger, who made a notable impact at Arsenal in the late 1990s and represented Austria at Euro 2008, has died at the age of 48 in a tragic car accident involving a train. Known for his professionalism and skills on the pitch, Manninger leaves behind a legacy as a respected player in European football.
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at the age of 48 after his car was struck by a train.
Manninger made 64 appearances for Arsenal between 1997 and 2002, winning the Premier League and FA Cup.
He won 33 caps for Austria and was part of the squad at Euro 2008 held in his home country.
“Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on and off the pitch,” said Austrian Football Association sporting director Peter Schottel.
“His professionalism, composure and reliability made him an integral part of his teams and the national team. His achievements deserve the utmost respect and will be unforgettable.”
Manninger began his career with his hometown club Red Bull Salzburg and played for 14 teams across Europe, including Sienna, Juventus, Udinese and Augsburg. He signed a short-term deal with Liverpool in July 2016 as a 39-year-old but did not play.
During his time at Arsenal, Manninger largely played second fiddle to David Seaman but filled in for the injured England keeper late in the 1997-98 season. That season, he played a key role in Arsenal's FA Cup run, notably helping them beat West Ham on penalties in the sixth round and impressing in a memorable win against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Manninger was named Premier League player of the month for March 1998.
More to follow.
